iPad as a Universal Remote

I’ve finally found a use for the iPad. Up to now I’ve thought it’s a toy for people who cannot afford the MacBook or for those hoping it will do the job of an iPod and a MacBook, but it’s too large to carry in your inside pocket and underpowered to really do serious work with.

Enter the RedEye Mini

RedEye Mini

But apparently a company called ThinkFlood has thought about this and have come up with an adapter RedEye Mini which for $49 turns the iPad (with suitable software) into a Universal Remote. They also have a similar product for the iPod Touch and iPhone.

Example Screen Shots

OK the iPads not small but it compares well with other Home Cinema control systems and of course it will also have added features over these devices so when not using as a Universal Remote you can use it surf the internet – maybe check the channel guide online before selecting your TV channel or decide whether to reach for a DVD for those many evenings when there is just nothing on.

For those of us that love gadgets now you can justify buying an iPad even if it’s just so that you can consign all those remote controls for the TV, DVD, Satellite, Audio Systems, Cinema System and so on that you have laying around to the back of the cupboard.

Crestron - iPad Home Automation

The Pro AV Industry is also developing similar Home Automation systems using the iPad with configurable icons which will allow the consumer to design their own control system with unique icons. Using this for example you could write a sequence (Macro) to turn on/off the lights, close the curtains, lower the screen and activate all the Home Cinema Equipment ready for you to just drop your Blu-ray disk into the player and you are ready to show.